Ingredient library
Every ingredient SkinAtlas knows about — all 2402 of them. What each one does, what it works well with, and what to watch for.
A polar ester used in cosmetics primarily as a fragrance and emollient (EU CosIng functions: Perfuming, Emollient), appearing in Korean sunscreens as a solvent/texture aid and scent component, not as a UV-active.
A widely used broad-spectrum preservative.
An ester emollient derived from phenoxyethanol and caprylic acid that functions as a skin conditioner and solvent in cosmetic formulations.
Phenyl Trimethicone is a phenyl-substituted silicone fluid that functions as a lightweight emollient, imparting a silky feel and optical brightening effect on skin and hair.
An essential aromatic amino acid used in cosmetics as a humectant that contributes to the skin's natural moisturizing factor.
A water-soluble UVB UV filter (Ensulizole). Approved by FDA and EU (up to 4%). Converts UV energy to heat. Best used in combination with UVA filters due to its narrow UVB-only spectrum.
A versatile preservative and fragrance ingredient with antimicrobial properties that provides broad-spectrum protection and odor-masking benefits.
A dihydrochalcone polyphenol (aglycone of phloridzin) extracted from apple (Malus domestica) bark, roots, and leaves. Neutralizes free radicals via hydrogen-atom transfer and single-electron transfer mechanisms; inhibits tyrosinase (mixed-type, IC50 169 µM) to reduce melanin precursors for brightening; and suppresses NF-κB via direct TLR2 binding for anti-inflammatory benefit. Clinically studied at 2% in combination with L-ascorbic acid and ferulic acid — this triple combination significantly reduced UV-induced markers (MMP-9, thymine dimers, p53) in a peer-reviewed trial (Oresajo et al. 2008). The active ingredient in SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF.
Extract from Phormium tenax (New Zealand flax / harakeke), a monocot in the Xanthorrhoeaceae family unrelated to common flax (Linum usitatissimum), with traditional Māori use in wound and skin care. Primary bioactive fractions are polysaccharides rich in D-xylose and D-glucuronic acid alongside linoleic acid, which contributes to ceramide biosynthesis and barrier integrity. The hero ingredient in The Saem Urban Eco Harakeke product line.
A naturally occurring phospholipid (the main component of soy lecithin) that closely mirrors the lipid structure of the skin's own cell membranes, making it highly biocompatible for barrier repair and as a liposomal delivery vehicle.
A generic INCI listing for a mixture of phospholipids (phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, and related compounds) that are structural components of cell membranes, used to reinforce the skin barrier and aid active delivery.
A fruit extract from the Indian gooseberry (Phyllanthus emblica / Emblica officinalis) prized in Ayurvedic skincare for its very high content of tannins, polyphenols, and emblicanins that provide antioxidant, brightening, and anti-inflammatory activity.
An extract from Phyllostachys bambusoides (Moso bamboo) tissues, containing flavonoids, silica, and polyphenols; used in skincare for soothing, antioxidant, and conditioning properties.
The fresh sap (juice) pressed from Phyllostachys bambusoides (Moso bamboo), used as a silica-rich, lightweight humectant and skin conditioner in Korean skincare formulations.
An extract from the outer bark/husk of Phyllostachys pubescens (moso bamboo) shoots; distinct from bamboo water or leaf extract, it is rich in polyphenols and flavonoids with antioxidant and soothing properties.
Extract from the fruit of Physalis alkekengi (Solanaceae, winter cherry / Chinese lantern), containing physalins, flavonoids (notably luteolin glucosides), withanolides, carotenoids, and ascorbic acid. In vitro studies show reduced ROS production, inhibited pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β), and mixed-type tyrosinase inhibition. Used in ferment-forward K-beauty essences alongside galactomyces and ginseng extracts.
An extract of Physalis angulata (cutleaf ground cherry) containing withanolides and flavonoids, used in cosmetics for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and skin-protecting properties.
The free-acid form of phytate (myo-inositol hexaphosphoric acid) used in cosmetics primarily as a chelating agent and mild brightening active; distinct from Sodium Phytate.
A precursor lipid that supports barrier function and has soothing properties.
A mixture of plant-derived sterols (beta-sitosterol, campesterol, stigmasterol) used to support the skin barrier and improve moisture retention. Structurally similar to cholesterol in the skin lipid matrix.
An ester of phytosterol and isostearic acid. Provides emollient and barrier-supporting properties while delivering phytosterol benefits for skin conditioning.
A complex ester of phytosterol and isostearyl alcohol with dimer linoleic acid. Forms liquid crystalline structures that integrate into skin's lipid barrier. Used in Naturie's gel for barrier-compatible emolliency.
Phytosteryl Macadamiate is an ester of phytosterols and macadamia-derived fatty acids, used as a rich emollient that enhances skin texture and helps reinforce the skin's lipid barrier.
An ester of phytosterols (plant-derived sterols) and oleic acid. Used as a lightweight emollient and skin-conditioning agent that supports the skin barrier lipid structure.